A rail clamp grips the rail head or rail sides to secure a rail-mounted machine in place, resisting wind forces and preventing travel. It acts directly on the rail, often with strong hydraulic force and fail-safe engagement. Rail clamps are widely used as storm securing devices for port cranes and stacker reclaimers.
A rail brake, depending on design, may press a brake shoe or pad onto the top of the rail (top-of-rail braking) or act on a rail-related surface to generate friction and holding force. Rail brakes are also used for storm protection and sometimes for emergency stopping of rail travel, while rail clamps are primarily for static securing (parking/storm).
In practice, the difference is how force is applied and what surface is used: clamps “grip” the rail, while rail brakes “press” and create friction. Both can be fail-safe and both require proper alignment, corrosion protection, and regular inspection. Selection should consider rail profile, required holding force, and whether you need pure parking/storm holding or also travel braking capability.
